But despite the recent demands to crack down hard on racism following the abuse suffered by Manchester City's Raheem Sterling at the hands of Chelsea fans earlier this month, FA disciplinary chiefs have opted to send Gerrard on an education course as well as issuing him with a warning about his future conduct.

Gerrard (left) was sacked by Oldham (Image: Getty Images Europe)

Players have complained in recent weeks that racism remains prevalent in the lower leagues.

And the leniency of the punishment meted out to Gerrard has surprised officials at Oldham.

The Latics face their former defender when they travel to meet Carlisle on Boxing Day.

Gerrard was dismissed for “gross misconduct arising from certain social media posts which brought the club into disrepute” after posting a tasteless joke about the Islamic holy period of Ramadan.